We can use our M4ATX and just get a + and a - from the 32Pin connector and put it to the mini's power supply bypassing the transformers that take the 120V and turn it into 12V.

If only reverse engineering one was that easy... You would have to isolate the 120-240 ac side from the Regulated 12v DC side of things. Otherwise you will risk losses and interference. Id need a good look at one of the PSUs before i can give a confident solution.

06-18-2010, 08:34 PM

Bugbyte

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lachie

You're obviously not a mac fan.

I'm a huge Mac fan, but it's waay too expensive and for...what? The 'classic' mini was a good hardware package - small form factor, low power, WiFi, Bluetooth, DVD burner for a good price.

$499 is an okay price for that package but $699 is too much. The only viable FE for the Mac is ICE3, which can run on a slower, cheaper Mini and if you want to run Linux or Windows on it, you can get cheaper packages for Intel boards.

I can't believe I just wrote this post. banghead

06-19-2010, 09:41 AM

Machinehead

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lachie

You're obviously not a mac fan.

Yet I have a mac mini as my CarPC.

The irony.....

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bugbyte

if you want to run Linux or Windows on it, you can get cheaper packages for Intel boards.

That boot faster and have less compatibility issues.

06-19-2010, 05:59 PM

bluehawk

so we picked up the new mac mini and ripped it apart and it looks like it can be done using the M4ATX and a lot of slicing and soldering. i'll take some pics of the process once we start.

06-21-2010, 11:54 PM

Project07MACry

My 12 cents!

Quote:

I can't believe I just wrote this post.

To tell you the truth, I can't believe it either!!
**rotfl**

I finally got to check out the New and Old Generation of minis side by side, and I thought I'd share it with you guys:

Thanks for the photos. For some reason I was previously under the impression that it was the same footprint but thinner.

06-22-2010, 09:32 AM

ws6vert

Quote:

Originally Posted by Engadget

Obviously the major portion of the case is the aluminum unibody, which is thinner than the previous-gen at an inch and a quarter, but slightly bigger around at seven by seven inches square. Apple tells us the new and old minis are essentially the same size by volume; you might think of the new mini as being a flattened-out version of the old.

Orientation and location will determine if the new minis will be better suited for in car use in terms of physical mounting space. Overall it looks like a great low power machine... the downfalls are the integrated psu and the PRICE!! Guess i'll continue to settle for low cost, low power, low bling-bling wintels.

07-19-2010, 06:25 PM

jellymonster

So.... Looking to get my Mac Mini next month. Of course I would love an aluminium one, any updates on installation in car?
Thanks
JM

07-19-2010, 06:30 PM

bluehawk

Yup we got it in!! We fried one bought another one and it works!! Take a look at our website under news. Bluehawksolutions.com

07-19-2010, 06:48 PM

jellymonster

Nice, love the setup.
How easy is the Mac mini to remove and power at home? That was one of the main things that attract me to the older Mac mini